Palmer casts doubt on Woods' major hunt

Arnold Palmer says Tiger Woods will find it increasingly difficult to overtake Jack Nicklaus' record number of major wins as age catches up with the world No.1.

Speaking ahead of the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill, Palmer said Woods, 38, will struggle to keep his concentration as his search for a 15th major nears six years.

"I don't think 38 years is the ultimate stopping point for his quest to do what Jack did," Palmer said. "I think it lessens the possibility of that happening. It's going to be tough.

"It's going to be tough to keep the concentration and the type of the game that is necessary to win majors."

Woods withdrew from the Arnold Palmer Invitational on Tuesday, with back spasms preventing him from adding to the eight titles he has won previously at Bay Hill.

Jack Nicklaus holds the record for major wins with 18, four more than Woods, whose last title came at the 2008 US Open.

With the Masters getting underway on April 10, Woods' withdrawal has cast doubt on his participation at Augusta National.

"Unfortunately, my back spasms and the pain haven't subsided," he said. "It's too early to know about the Masters, and I will continue to be evaluated and work closely with my doctors. I feel badly that I won't be able to play in this great tournament this week."